Remaking the Green Bay Packers' Dynasty

Vince Lombardi, Lambeau Field, six wins? The Green Bay Packers, one of the most storied programs in the history of all of sports, finished in third place in their division this year. Had it not been for the record-breaking performance from the Detroit Lions, they would have been last.

What was the problem with the team this season? Could it be that Brett Favre's departure to New York left the team in ruins?

I don't believe that is true. Aaron Rodgers played a season to remember and one most quarterbacks would be proud to call their own.

Late in games this year, the Packers often had the lead. The defense, not the offense, is to blame for this year's dismal record. The offense scored enough points to win nine or 10 games, but late in the games, the defense let the team down.

Don't get me wrong, the defense played great all year—until the clock read 6:00 left in the fourth quarter. The team could have easily made the playoffs in what was a less than stellar NFC North division.

How can the Packers revamp their vaunted team post-Brett Favre? The answer lies not in their upcoming ninth pick in the NFL draft, but in a series of moves that should be made. After firing most of the defensive staff, the unit is left in shambles. One move that needs to be made is to make the defense better quickly rather than in the long-term.

With a young offense waiting in the wings to score more points next year, the management needs to make some moves quickly. Defensive pressure is something the Packers should improve on immediately.

Opposing teams this year had entirely too much time to throw the ball, and late in the game the defensive line died down and got pushed around.

A trade should be in the making for the team. Their ninth pick in the draft should be traded for a young defensive lineman or two. This would relieve pressure on the secondary and allow them to utilize the big play potential they have.

All hope is not gone for the Packers. One year ago, they were a bad Favre throw away from heading to the Super Bowl to face the Patriots.

Packers fans, don't give up on your team after a bad season. Some moves on defense and the Pack could be right back where they were when the Super Bowl began in the first place.